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West Perth an unwilling host to turbines

Add West Perth to the growing list of Ontario municipalities who are declaring themselves unwilling hosts to industrial wind turbines.

At council’s April 22 meeting there was little discussion as clerk Florence Stalenhoef reviewed the motion and council voted in favour of it.

Similar to the motions made by other municipalities, West Perth’s declaration hinges on comments from Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. Facing the increasing backlash from rural municipalities over the Green Energy Act, Wynne said the province would bring in more local involvement and that any green energy projects would depend on the local population being willing hosts.

The comments have spurred several rural municipalities to declare themselves unwilling hosts to wind turbines. As of press time, the list of unwilling hosts includes Huron East, Saugeen Shores, Wainfleet, Grey Highlands, Enniskillen Township, Prince Edward County and Georgian Bluffs.

After the motion passed, Coun. Barb MacLean asked how the municipality should announce its decision.

Stalenhoef said the motion will be sent to the Ontario premier, as well as the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

West Perth will send a copy of the motion to Perth County as well.

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West Perth is supporting a resolution out of Kincardine asking that the definition of a highway-approved off-road vehicle be expanded.